Archive for July, 2010

This video demonstrates parts of an exam called the Dynamic Gait Index (DGI). DGI is often used to determine levels of function and fall risk. This person is wearing the BalanceWear Vest weighted strategically according to the Balance-Based Torso-Weighting Method. As you will see she is much better when weighted. Specifically notice the change in ability whe she is walking moving her head side to side or up and down. Notice her change in ability to turn. How do you want to move?

This is an example of how Balance-Based Torso-Weighting can affect mobility in a Timed Up and Go test. Therapists will often use this test as a measure to determine if the patient is improving with treatment. Notice Mary can stand and turn with much more ease. She is weighted with 1.75 pounds for her balance loss.

Exercise class

Exercise class

Causes of Balance and Mobility Impairment in Multiple Sclerosis

Multiple sclerosis is a progressive autoimmune disease typically diagnosed in young adults, affecting the central nervous system causing damage to the myelin surrounding the nerves and lesions in the brain. Although the disease progresses differently in each person often gait and mobility problems are encountered. Individuals experience many different symptoms such as loss of sensation, visual or vestibular function, spasticity, weakness, central processing and motor output dysfunction. Any or all of the symptoms may contribute to a loss of balance leading to difficulty in walking.
If you experience balance problems you should see a physical therapist who is knowledgeable in treating patients with multiple sclerosis. Many people in my MS exercise class partially funded by the MSFoundation find they are able to do so much more than they thought they were capable of. When people get the diagnosis that they have a neurodegenerative disease and experience a relapse many do not rehabilitate back to where they started. With proper guidance many of them are experiencing recovery of function that they thought was unattainable.